Iraqi Cabinet welcomes Turkey’s announcement of withdrawal from Iraq
Iraqi Council of Ministers file photo
(IraqiNews.com) Baghdad – On Monday, Iraqi Council of Ministers welcomed the Turkish declaration to withdraw Turkish troops from Iraqi territory, while pointed out that the government will not permit the presence of any foreign military forces in the country.
An official statement obtained by IraqiNews.com said, “The Council of Ministers discussed the crisis with Turkey during its 48th ordinary session,” noting that “The Council welcomed Turkey’s declaration to withdraw from Iraqi territory and expressed hope that the withdrawal will complete.”
The statement added, “The Council confirmed the Iraqi government position of not permitting any military ground force on Iraqi territory, as well as respecting its national sovereignty,” pointing out that “Iraq does not permit any intervention in neighboring countries from its territory according to the principle of non-interference in domestic affairs of the neighboring countries.”
On Sunday, Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari said, “The withdrawal of Turkish troops from Iraq is a step in the right direction,” pointing out that, “Iraq is following the instructions of the UN Security Council until achieving the complete withdrawal.”
He continued, “Baghdad is looking forward for strong relations with Turkey, but without prejudice to the sovereignty of Iraq.”